New civil partnerships bill

South Australian independent MP Bob Such has announced plans to introduce civil partnership legislation into state Parliament later this year. The move follows the recent defeat of same-sex marriage legislation at the federal level, which many saw as clearing the way for a state-based push for marriage equality.

Such acknowledges civil unions are not the “ideal” outcome for legal recognition of same-sex relationships, but has been encouraged by LGBTI advocacy groups hoping for a step closer to full marriage equality.

“I think there is a chance that civil unions would get some support,” Such told the Herald Sun.

“It gives some recognised status in terms of their relationship as a couple.”

He believes same-sex marriage legislation would likely be blocked by a combination of Liberal MPs and those from Labor’s Right faction.

Earlier this year, Such introduced a bill to legalise voluntary euthanasia, which was narrowly defeated by a conscience vote in the Lower House.